jumper's knee/ patellar ligament tendinitis

[jarsepp]

Hi!
I've been trying to find info on jumper's knee (protocols, etiology etc), but this has proven difficult.

Does anyone know a good treatment protocol for jumper's knee. I've had this condition myself for one year (palpatory & movement pain at the insertation of patellar ligament on patella). All I can think of is vastus medialis and hamstrings training. Any suggestions anyone?

Moreover, does anyone know if the term "jumper's knee" is used to refer to a condition resulting from a tear in the Pat. lig OR overuse inflammation OR both OR something else? Would the term "tendinitis" cover the condition better?

Any references on the topic are more than welcome!

jarmo

[1971]

How old are you? Is it an apophysitis? Is it on the inferior pole of the patella?
Check your muscle lengths, especially rectus fem, iliopsoas,soleus and gastrocs.
Have you tried taping to change the mechanical pull of the patella tendon.
Could it actually be a fat pad irritation, it is highly sensitive, especially chemically (inflammation).
What sport do you play? You may need rest for at least 4-6 weeks as you impliment treatment to try to reduce the chronic inflammation

[perfphysio]

check you hip joint mechanics and the balance between quads and hamstrings during jumping/running etc. Then assess footware and the training regimen as this may be due to over training or incorrect technique (which is usually the number one cause). The knne breaks down when it's hinge function is simply over worked so look elsewhere for why this is happening and don't treat the knee as the problem. :-)

[Crackers]

jarmo
The hole in your tendon is most likely mucoid degeneration within the tendon, but probably doesnt cause your pain. You wont get rid of it either, so don't bother getting another ultrasound to check. The other replies are on track regards to biomechanics, technique etc. Other areas to work on may include pelvic/ core stability, calf muscle endurance and ankle dorsiflexion ROM. It is probably best to stick with the term jumper's knee or tendonopathy as the pathology of the condition typically shows an absence of inflammatory cells at the lesion. Hope this is useful for you.
Crackers

[Irish]

Tendinopathy is the correct term and if you search looking for Dr Jill Cook's articles you will get the latest information. She also has treatment advice and protocols.